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September 26: Mesothelioma Awareness Day

Mesothelioma is a rare, but aggressive, form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, caused primarily by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. While there are only 3,000 new diagnoses each year, the CDC recently published a report showing an increase in mesothelioma mortality rates between 1999-2015, and the prognosis is a life expectancy is 6-12 months. September 26th is the official Mesothelioma Awareness day; it was established in 2004 by the Meso Foundation and aims to bring more attention and funding to this rare cancer.

Last year, the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance partnered with Sermo on the Sermo Pages platform to educate and engage with doctors around the world about this rare cancer, new treatments, and survivor stories. The Mesothelioma and Asbestos Awareness Center has allowed physicians to keep track of medical advances and emerging news on Mesothelioma. Noteworthy posts include discussions highlighting the significant medical advances that helped mesothelioma directly or indirectly in the past year; these improves include increased funding, better detecting and diagnosing, and improved treatment options. Another notable post shared the experiences of Dr. Yendamuri, and his thoughts on The Future of Mesothelioma Treatment.

Sermo has remained active in the conversation, engaging Sermo physicians by detailing the importance of looking beyond symptoms when it comes to diagnosing Mesothelioma as well as the implications of Vice President Joe Biden’s cancer research initiative, The Cancer Moonshot Initiative. Ultimately, the increase in awareness, on research, treatments, and initiatives, are paving the way in helping mesothelioma patients confront their cancer. This year, the Meso Foundation asks all allies to wear blue leading up to, and on Mesothelioma Awareness day to show your support in the fight against this rare disease.

Are you a doctor who wants to stay in the know about rare diseases and join the conversation? Log into Sermo to get a global view on conditions, treatments, and more.